- Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college/university
- Open to graduates regardless of major who have a quantitative foundation with an interest in building a career in Accountancy
Master of Science in Accountancy
STEM Certified – OPT Extension Eligible #1 CPA PASS RATE More often than any school in the past 25 years #1 in BIG FOUR JOB PLACEMENT Wake Forest MSA graduates are more likely to land in the Big 4 than those from any other school 100% Employment (Class of 2024 at 6 months)
Learn About MSA Program Tracks
A detailed overview of the available learning tracks, core curriculum and timelines for the Master of Science in Accountancy at the Wake Forest University School of Business.
MSA Career Outcomes
Wake Forest MSA graduates are making a difference at some of the world's top companies. Here are a few of their stories.
Living the Dream
Tynan Hamilton, MSA Graduate, Senior Accounting Analyst, Disney
As a Senior Accounting Analyst at Disney Music Group, Tynan Hamilton always dreamed of working for the Walt Disney Company and joined their Accounting and Finance Rotation Program shortly after graduation.
Crushing Personal and Professional Goals
Janelle Lewis, MSA Graduate, Audit Manager, Deloitte
Janelle Lewis is pursuing personal goals and crushing career milestones as she works as an Audit Manager at Deloitte and has completed a thru-hike of almost 2,200 miles on the Appalachian Trail.
Real Learning for The Real World
Chantal Mosley, MSA Graduate, VP, Wholesale Credit Delivery Optimization Associate, Truist
Wake Forest’s MSA program prepared me for my career by providing an environment fostered by teamwork, endurance, and dedication. Each class was thoughtfully designed to offer realistic scenarios, which I now encounter in the workplace each day.
Growth Beyond the Classroom
Ryan Risse, MSA Graduate, Senior Accountant, CWCapital
At Wake Forest I was surrounded by nurturing professors, faculty and fellow students. My network expanded and I experienced academic and professional growth, as well as personal development.
Developing the Whole Person
Alejandro Gonzalez, MSA Graduate, Senior Associate - Capital Markets & Advisory Services, PwC
I chose Wake Forest because of their renowned reputation as a graduate school and the intimate classroom experience I had with faculty throughout my undergraduate experience. The faculty at WFU truly care about the whole student. The professors are always readily available to answer questions about my career track.
MSA Average Class Profile
Class statistics averaged over the most recent three cohorts
110
Total Students
47%
Female
21%
Underrepresented Groups
26%
International
47
Colleges/Universities Represented
17
Majors Represented
3.6
Average GPA
647
Average GMAT
MSA Ambassadors
Wake Forest MSA Ambassadors are current students who are available and eager to answer any questions you might have. Our Ambassadors know the MSA program and the path to get there better than anyone, so they can give you the first-hand student perspective you need. We encourage you to reach out any of the ambassadors listed below via email regarding questions about the program, application process, career resources, internships, life at Wake Forest, living in Winston-Salem, or any other questions you may have.
Natalie Auwn
Why did you choose to pursue the MSM / MSBA / MSA at Wake Forest?
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I choose to purse the MSA at Wake Forest because of the prestigious reputation with CPA pass rate and highly experienced professors. I ultimately made my decision after attending Accounting for the Future, where I saw campus for the first time and had such a welcoming interaction with the entire staff. Hearing about the MSA program and how the university is at the forefront of the ever changing accounting world made me confident on the growth and knowledge I would gain at Wake Forest.
What has been the most impactful part of your program experience so far?
The most impactful part of my program experience so far has been the incredible staff in the program. All the professors have immense expertise from their prior work experience in the accounting profession and incorporate very helpful advice in their classes. The open-door policy of their office hours provides ample opportunity to ask questions. The administrative staff are very supportive and provide several resources to aid our experience in the program.
What is one of your favorite spots on campus or in Winston Salem and why?
My favorite spot in Winston Salem is Reynolda Village because it has cute boutiques and great restaurants. The close proximity to campus makes it the perfect place to relax, especially with the pretty garden grounds.
Christopher Dickerson
Why did you choose to pursue the MSM / MSBA / MSA at Wake Forest?
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There are few programs that have the level of sustained success that Wake Forest has in helping MSA student both pass the CPA exam and build impactful professional networks for post-graduate success. This made the decision to attend Wake Forest an easy one.
What has been the most impactful part of your program experience so far?
I have been energized by the openness of the cohort to learn about each other; it has been fun meeting everyone from different college, countries, and backgrounds and experiencing this program together. I truly haven't met anyone who hasn't been awesome to talk to and learn from.
What is one of your favorite spots on campus or in Winston Salem and why?
WakerSpace has been my little escape on campus when I am not on one of the many levels of Farrell Hall. I host a podcast, and the space allows students to record to free and that has been helpful in keeping my creative outlet on my student budget. They have so many other workshops and ways for students to learn skills that might be a but unexpected like woodworking and 3D printing.
Emile Dogbe-Gakpetor
Email
City: Accra, Ghana
Undergraduate School:
Livingstone college
Major/Minor:
Business administration
Why did you choose to pursue the MSM / MSBA / MSA at Wake Forest?
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I chose to pursue the MSA at Wake Forest because of its strong national reputation, rigorous curriculum, and outstanding track record of preparing students for careers in accounting and tax. The program’s dedicated faculty, emphasis on both technical and analytical skills, and strong alumni network provide the ideal environment to grow academically and professionally. The high CPA pass rate is another reason why.
What has been the most impactful part of your program experience so far?
The most impactful part of my program has been building my network and relations with my peers.
What is one of your favorite spots on campus or in Winston Salem and why?
My favorite spot on campus is the sutton gym because it helps me decompress after a long and hectic day.
Jeremiah George
Why did you choose to pursue the MSM / MSBA / MSA at Wake Forest?
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I chose the MSA because I wanted to turn vision into action. Many founders are idea-people, and struggle to connect their vision back to the numbers for profitability and scalability. I wanted to build upon my financial background and deepen professional networks and credibility throughout the east coast, and Wake Forest University provided a platform where I felt more like an individual with a lower staff-student and alumni-student ratio, thus providing an education with a more personal-touch.
What has been the most impactful part of your program experience so far?
The academic curriculum has been delightfully challenging, mixing both finance and accounting, being in the Financial Markets and Transactions track. I've had the opportunity to build relationships with students and professors and explore different ideas in business and technology. Being able to also go to the Meet the Firms event and soon the Career Fair allowed me to tap into the recruiting pipeline Wake has spent years building. Overall, the MSA program is an accelerator and launchpad for my career and I strongly believe I am making progress towards my goals through it.
What is one of your favorite spots on campus or in Winston Salem and why?
"I find walking throughout the campus overall a great experience. The aesthetic of architecture and beautiful landscaping is always inspiring and seeing all the students active and participating in intermural or other campus social activities brings it to life. I've enjoyed studying at ZSR library and stepping into other halls and colleges to get work done. There's always a place on campus to study and there are always people willing to chat or help if you need it. Off of campus, the Allegacy Federal Credit Union Stadium is truly an experience for gameday when everyone comes out from different programs to cheer on the Demon Deacs football team. I also enjoyed watching baseball at the Truist Stadium with the program as well. There is also Burke Street and 4th Street for socializing after-school, with friends and locals.
Overall, however, I enjoy campus over the off-campus events because of the aesthetic. Farrell Hall is my primary place of study, with ZSR library as my second-choice."
Daniel Green
Why did you choose to pursue the MSM / MSBA / MSA at Wake Forest?
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Because of the reputation and my love for accounting
What has been the most impactful part of your program experience so far?
The professors and the care they have for us
What is one of your favorite spots on campus or in Winston Salem and why?
The gardens here at Wake, because they are gorgeous
Iyanna Jackson
Email
City: Kingston
Undergraduate School:
University of The District of Columbia
Major/Minor:
Accounting and Finance
Why did you choose to pursue the MSM / MSBA / MSA at Wake Forest?
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I chose to pursue MSA at Wake Forest because of my accounting background from undergraduate, I wanted to deepen my expertise in audit and prepare for the CPA exam and what better school than Wake Forest, which has the #1 CPA pass rate. I like that the program is highly career-focused, with the majority of students graduating with job offers, which is especially valuable in today’s competitive job market. I’ve also heard inspiring stories from alumni who shared that the MSA program prepared them for their careers, with each class thoughtfully designed around realistic scenarios they now face in the workplace every day. I love that Wake Forest truly sets students up for success.
What has been the most impactful part of your program experience so far?
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I think the most impactful part of this program experience is learning the importance of being prepared for class. Reviewing materials beforehand and writing down questions helps me actively engage in discussions, clarify concepts in real time, and make the most of each class session.
Also the networking opportunities at each event that allows me to connect with students in other programs or other professionals. "
What is one of your favorite spots on campus or in Winston Salem and why?
My favorite place is the study rooms in Farrell Hall, especially the large room on the second floor. I spend most of my time there because it’s very quiet, the temperature is just right, and it has a whiteboard where I can work out problems and study effectively.
Jodi Katti
Email
City: Chicago, IL
Undergraduate School:
Saint Louis University
Major/Minor:
Major: Psychology, Minors: Accounting and Criminology/Criminal Justice
Why did you choose to pursue the MSM / MSBA / MSA at Wake Forest?
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I chose to pursue the MSA at Wake Forest because it felt like the perfect place to jump-start my career in accounting, especially since I'm new to the field. After researching various programs and attending Inclusion Weekend, I realized Wake Forest was exactly what I needed to grow professionally. Originally, I was headed toward a career in psychology or law, but I wanted something more practical and stable before potentially going back to law school. Wake Forest was one of the few programs that embraced my unique background and offered a fantastic network, a great CPA pass rate, and, most importantly, an internship built right into the program. This hands-on experience was something I really wanted since I hadn’t had the chance to work in accounting before. Plus, the program’s in-person format, the scholarship I received, and the opportunity to explore a new state made Wake Forest an even more attractive choice. Overall, it felt like a place where I could truly thrive and find the support I needed to succeed.
What has been the most impactful part of your program experience so far?
The most impactful part of my experience in the MSA program has definitely been the people I’ve met—whether it’s the supportive faculty, the helpful staff, or the friends I’ve made along the way. At Wake Forest, I feel like I’m surrounded by a community that genuinely wants to see me succeed and is dedicated to helping me get there.
Back in undergrad, where I wasn’t a business major, I didn’t always feel that kind of support or confidence in my potential in accounting. But since joining the MSA program, I’ve been welcomed with open arms and given so much encouragement and guidance. It’s been incredible to feel truly seen and supported by both the staff and faculty, which has really boosted my confidence.
I’ve also been lucky to connect with amazing people in my cohort and throughout the business school. The friendships I’ve formed—whether through studying, sharing challenges, or just bonding over our experiences—have been invaluable. It’s a sense of community and connection that I hadn’t experienced before, and it’s what makes my time here so special.
Dingfei Liu
Email
City: Chengdu, Sichuan
Undergraduate School:
University of California Riverside
Major/Minor:
Accounting
Why did you choose to pursue the MSM / MSBA / MSA at Wake Forest?
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I never went to a private school and I knew WFU has very good MSA program. At the same time, when I applied I scheduled a meeting with admissions and they are very nice. I like the culture here
What has been the most impactful part of your program experience so far?
Meet the firm and many workshops
What is one of your favorite spots on campus or in Winston Salem and why?
Pingpang table outside the Farrell hall
Diego Medina
Email
City: San Diego, CA
Undergraduate School:
San Diego State University
Major/Minor:
Finance / Economics
Why did you choose to pursue the MSM / MSBA / MSA at Wake Forest?
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I wanted to further my education and reinforce my knowledge/network in the business community to help with jobs and opportunities.
What has been the most impactful part of your program experience so far?
My classmates who I connected with has made the biggest impact so far. I think having a group of people who you can rely on and ask questions always makes the process smoother and enjoyable.
What is one of your favorite spots on campus or in Winston Salem and why?
I recently just visited Reynolda Village with some friends and we went to Dough Joe to get coffee and donuts. The food and atmosphere was great.
Torian Powell
Email
City: Portland, Jamaica
Undergraduate School:
University of the District of Columbia
Major/Minor:
Accounting + Finance
Why did you choose to pursue the MSM / MSBA / MSA at Wake Forest?
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I decided to pursue my MSA at Wake Forest because of its strong reputation for academic excellence, the personalized attention from faculty, and the emphasis on practical, career-focused learning. I was also drawn to the collaborative culture and supportive community, which I believe will prepare me not only with technical skills but also with the leadership and professional development needed to excel in my career.
What has been the most impactful part of your program experience so far?
The most impactful part of my program experience so far has been the supportive community; both classmates and faculty who challenge me academically while also encouraging collaboration and personal growth. I was very nervous about pursuing my graduate studies but that nervousness faded once I got a chance to be personal with everyone.
What is one of your favorite spots on campus or in Winston Salem and why?
One of my favorite spots in Winston is the Allegory stadium because I enjoy the competitiveness of sports. I am confident that I will also enjoy the basketball games when the season begins.
Lillian Radcliffe
Email
City: New York, NC
Undergraduate School:
University at Albany
Major/Minor:
Accounting, Creative Writing
Why did you choose to pursue the MSM / MSBA / MSA at Wake Forest?
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To acquire my 150 credits for the CPA and to expand my network
What has been the most impactful part of your program experience so far?
Working with professors in smaller settings and feeling as if they truly care for your success
What is one of your favorite spots on campus or in Winston Salem and why?
I enjoy the library's coffee shop, it's quite peaceful and lets me refocus.
Gwyneth Stewart
Email
City: Lincolnton, NC
Undergraduate School:
Furman University
Major/Minor:
Double major in Accounting & Politics and International Affairs
Why did you choose to pursue the MSM / MSBA / MSA at Wake Forest?
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I chose to pursue my MSA at Wake Forest because of the amazing reputation that the program has for producing successful professionals. The Wake Forest staff is also notorious for their commitment to their students wellbeing.
What has been the most impactful part of your program experience so far?
I have felt welcome from the moment I stepped into Farrell. On the first day of orientation, I walked in to be greeted by Alex Peoples, who I had met at Furman during a recruiting event. It was so nice to see a familiar face! I also had the great opportunity to meet with the tax professors in the Spring. This allowed me to be familiar with the staff prior to starting the program. These experiences helped me settle in at Wake so fast even though I was in a completely new place!
What is one of your favorite spots on campus or in Winston Salem and why?
I have loved spending time in the Innovation Quarter! The area is so cool and is a great spot to hang out with friends or family. There are so many great options for food and drink.
Christian Stover
Why did you choose to pursue the MSM / MSBA / MSA at Wake Forest?
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I chose to pursue the MSA because of the reputation that the program has for excellent students and faculty as well as a high CPA pass rate.
What has been the most impactful part of your program experience so far?
Attending meet the firms allowed me to meet more local accounting firms within the Southeast region who I was not able to connect with coming from a school out West.
What is one of your favorite spots on campus or in Winston Salem and why?
My favorite spot on campus is the Wellbeing Center because of the quality of athletic equipment allowing me to stay healthy and decompress after studying.
MSA Events
Consider joining us for our next MSA event
Jan
21
@12:00 PM
Spring Career & Grad School Fair
REGISTER HERE! About the Event The Spring Career Fair is your premier opportunity to connect with dozens of employers and graduate school recruiters. Whether you are looking for a summer internship, a full-time career, or exploring advanced degree programs, this event is designed for students of all majors and class years. Why Attend? If you have a plan: Meet directly with organizations and admissions representatives to secure your next step. If youre still exploring: Discover new career paths, learn about various industries, and see what options are available to you. Come network grad school representatives and employers who are specifically looking to meet YOU!
Feb
10
@6:00 PM
Virtual GMAT & GRE Test Prep
It's always a good time to start preparing for the GMAT or GRE exam! Join us from the comfort of your home for an online preparatory session to gain test insights and learn test-taking tips. In this three-hour session, you'll cover the structure of all exam sections, review GMAT/GRE questions, required body of knowledge and test scoring. Our GMAT/GRE Prep Workshops are offered at no charge and are open to prospective students interested in any of our graduate business programs. Register here.
Feb
27
@3:00 PM
Future in Focus: Graduate Business Preview Weekend
Join this immersive experience to find your direction, build your network, and see how our accelerated masters programs in Accountancy, Business Analytics, and Management can fast-track your professional goals. Experience our cutting-edge curriculum and personalized career support, and picture whats possible with a Wake Forest business masters. Wake Forest will cover travel, meals, and accommodations for Future in Focus attendees. Qualified Future in Focus participants who are admitted to an accelerated masters program in Accountancy, Business Analytics, or Management program will be considered for a minimum $10,000 scholarship per year. Space is limited, applying early is highly recommended.
Feb
28
@9:00 AM
Future in Focus: Graduate Business Preview Weekend
Join this immersive experience to find your direction, build your network, and see how our accelerated masters programs in Accountancy, Business Analytics, and Management can fast-track your professional goals. Experience our cutting-edge curriculum and personalized career support, and picture whats possible with a Wake Forest business masters. Wake Forest will cover travel, meals, and accommodations for Future in Focus attendees. Qualified Future in Focus participants who are admitted to an accelerated masters program in Accountancy, Business Analytics, or Management program will be considered for a minimum $10,000 scholarship per year. Space is limited, applying early is highly recommended.
Mar
12
@6:00 PM
Free Virtual GRE Test Prep
It's always a good time to start preparing for the GRE exam! Join us from the comfort of your home for an online preparatory session to gain test insights and learn test-taking tips. In this three-hour session, you'll cover the structure of all exam sections, review GRE questions, required body of knowledge and test scoring. Our GRE Prep Workshops are offered at no charge and are open to prospective students interested in any of our graduate business programs. Register here.
Mar
18
@12:00 AM
Grad Meets World: Meal Planning with Culinary U Triad
Grad Meets World is a program with synchronous and asynchronous content about preparing graduate students for life in and beyond Wake Forest School of Business. For current pre-experience graduate business students only. Unlock the power of nutritious eating and effective meal planning with Culinary U Triad!
Articles
Review articles that highlight industry trends and career paths in Master of Science in Accountancy (MSA).
Fact vs. Fiction - The CPA Exam
Is A Masters In Accounting Worth It?
What Can I Do With A Masters In Accounting?
Earning a Masters in Accounting Versus an MBA in Finance
Exclusive Edge: Financial Markets & Transactions Track
From Internship to Impact: Wake Forest MSA's Paid Tax Season Internships
"One of the Most Beautiful Campuses in the World"
Wake Forest's stunning Georgian architecture and lush, impeccably maintained grounds offer both grandeur and tranquility, making the campus not just a setting for academic pursuit, but also a celebrated destination that embodies classic collegiate charm and natural beauty.
“With its stately Georgian architecture and meticulously landscaped gardens, Wake Forest’s campus embodies classic Southern charm.”
The 64 Most Beautiful College Campuses in America
“Wake Forest blends the built and natural worlds with steeples and domed roofs peeking out above the ground’s lush greenery and treelines.”
Most Beautiful College Campuses in America
“The Georgian-style buildings, clad in Old Virginia Brick with limestone details and decorative wrought iron, create a unified, timeless aesthetic.”
The 45 Most Beautiful College Campuses In The South
“The most recognizable campus building is the Wait Chapel, which is named after the university's founder Samuel Wait.”
25 of the Most Beautiful College Campuses In the South
“Ranked the most beautiful college campus in NC, going up against stunning school's like Duke and UNC Chapel Hill.”
The Most Beautiful Universities in the World
Winston-Salem, NC
The "City of Arts and Innovation" offers an affordable, vibrant lifestyle with a thriving arts scene, outdoor activities, and safe walkable neighborhoods.
Meet Your MSA Team
If you have any questions regarding the enrollment process, student life, faculty, curriculum or career resources, please schedule a consult. We look forward to helping you!
Mark Evans
Dale K. Cline Department Chair for Accountancy; Associate Professor of Accounting
Susanne Lange Hoff (Susie)
Associate Director, Enrollment Management Recruiting
Mary M. Knapp
Associate Director, MSA Integrative Student Services
Nimish Rathkanthiwar
Regional Advisor, India & South Asia Enrollment Management Recruiting
